The State Department has announced new visa restrictions targeting Colombian government officials and their immediate family members. This decision follows the refusal by President Petro to accept two repatriation flights that he had previously authorized. In response, Secretary Rubio has ordered a suspension of visa issuance at the U.S. Embassy in Bogota.
Secretary Rubio's action aims to impose travel sanctions on those responsible for interfering with U.S. repatriation flight operations. These measures will remain in place until Colombia fulfills its obligations to accept the return of its citizens.
Under the authority of INA 212 (a)(3)(C), Secretary Rubio is empowered to declare any alien inadmissible if their entry "would have potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences for the United States."
The visa restrictions are specifically directed at Colombian officials and their families who meet these criteria.